RSVP Montgomery - November 2009 by RSVP Montgomery

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12 reply “YES” Styles and Trends to Consider

Our Best Cover Ups

16 singled OUT The 411 on Single Life

Santa, Baby!

18 connections Reasons to Gather

Holiday Traditions- Pg.18 The 12 Craze [s] of Christmas- Pg.32

24 Feature Story: Frugal, Festive, and Fabulous

30 Applause & Appraise RSVP’s Newest Local Entertainment Review

34 socially SEEN Events planned by RSVP Montgomery

40 the LIST A Who’s Who of Young Leaders

50 Look, Listen, Lounge Hot new music, movies, books, places

52 Friends, Trends, Odds & Ends Special Features Beating the Holiday Half Dozen- Pg. 20 Casa Napoli - Pg. 38 Horses & Hope - Pg. 48 Ray Johnston Band Benefit - Pg. 59

56 Now Hear This - a look at local sound

Jonathan Bloom

60 when? what? where? 74 resource DIRECTORY 76 venue 411

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24 40

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from the GIRLS The River Region Guide for All Things Social vol. 2, iss. 6 Publisher kim traff Editors blue sullivan amanda morrison Creative Director carl adams

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Contributing Designers kasey alexander summer patterson christine sykes jim tocco

he holidays are approaching and there is something in the air that makes the girls at RSVP Montgomery absolutely giddy! In preparing for this issue, we sat around and discussed our traditions and why we love this time of year. Whether it is the wonderful feast with family at Thanksgiving, our love for Christmas music and shopping, fun and festive Christmas parties, or celebrating the birth of our Savior, we all decided this is definitely the MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR! Shopping is something most women love to do and we are so fortunate to have the Wynfrey Hotel and Riverchase Galleria in Birmingham. We loaded up in our cars for a girls’ getaway and in no time, determined that with the abundance of stores, it is a great place to find that perfect gift for anyone on your list. However, if you can’t make the trip to the Wynfrey Hotel and Galleria, our 12 Crazes of Christmas feature will provide you with plenty of fun holiday activities right here in our beloved river region! We had a blast reading all of the holiday traditions that were submitted by our readers and have included some of our favorites for your entertainment. However, with all of the excitement, there are still those that struggle during the holidays due to financial difficulties or the loss of a loved one. The good news is that the human spirit has proven time and time again that when we are most challenged by life’s seemingly darkest hours we rise up and come together to help one another. Christmastime seems to be the time when we get back in touch with old friends and reach out to others that we might not reach out to during the year. We believe that giving time and love to those hurting can sometimes be the best gift of all. We want to thank our friends and supporters of RSVP Montgomery and wish you a wonderful holiday season full of love and excitement. We would like to personally invite you to attend our Christmas Party on December 17 at the new Alley Station downtown. Check out our website for more information or to sign up for our weekly event blast with all that is hip and happening.

With warm regards,

Contributing Photographers darren freeman bill ingalls julie lowry josh moates jim orr nicole paulk the studio at eastchase Contributing Writers john heckman lindsey henig amanda morrison janine schoudel eddie spangler blue sullivan jamie thompson RSVP Team mallory anderson josh hooks crystal luster janine schoudel IT Director charles kamerling Advisory Board keith cousins karl dabbs michael traff ken woodard

rsvp montgomery, inc. p.o.box 242158 montgomery, al 36124 telephone: 334.649.3030 fax: 334.272.3422 www.rsvp-montgomery.com ads@rsvp-montgomery.com kim@rsvp-montgomery.com RSVP Montgomery is a bi-monthly publication available at fine retailers throughout the River Region and through the website www.rsvp-montgomery.com All materials are protected by copyright laws. No material contained in this publication may be reproduced in whole or part without the expressed written consent of Publisher.

Kim Traff 10

RSVP MAY/JUNE 2009

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Best Our

Photography by Josh Moates

Everyone has a go-to cover up. Whether it be your favorite college t-shirt, your Chanel lip gloss, or your aviator sunglasses. But when the temperature drops, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re talking about a different kind of cover up. This winter blows in something a little new and fresh to the jacket scene, and Montgomery is just the city to find what brings out your own unique coldweather style.

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he first trend we are seeing everywhere that we absolutely adore is the classic trench with a twist. This is not your old private eyeʼs trench coat, this style is very intricate. Heather and the girls at Hue got it just right when they brought in a very affordable line called Desigual. Their black trench with embroidered embellishments is so colorful and fun for any time of day. Throw it on over a great pair of jeans and spiked heels for a funky look, or over a pair of cropped leggings and flats to go casual. The detail on the bottom hemline is to die for, so you will definitely want to make the time to go by and see for yourself!

They also carry a great trench by Fluxus that is made of luxurious French terry cotton. The winter white color is so versatile, and the big black buttons give it a personality of its own. We especially love that this coat can go from daytime to nighttime in a snap. Wear this over skinny jeans tucked into your favorite leather boot or lightly drape it over a cocktail dress for a ball this winter. This staple will be in your wardrobe for years. to come!

Cache is known for its formal wear, but scarcely acknowledged is the fact that they actually know a thing or two about jackets as well. This season there were two styles that jumped off the racks and caught my attention. There is just something about a fauxleather motorcycle jacket that gets me every time! I think these are understated and sexy, but with an air of class…and itʼs hard for just one garment to achieve all of that! Cropped leather jackets go a long way in my book, and since this one is made of a “leather-like” material, itʼs much more affordable! Itʼs a rich chocolate brown color with whip stitched detail. One look and youʼll love it.

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Jewelry provided by Francesca’s Collections

Another great trend in clothes this fall is metallic colors, and Cache has you covered there as well. Their shiny zipper-front anorak has 3⁄4 length sleeves and a flattering tie around the waist. This jacket is so perfect with your favorite black pants and a dangly pair of silver earrings. Itʼs just the right amount of metallic thread to make a bold statement. For a more casual spin on things, Francescaʼs is the place to go. Their affordable pricing and great stylish pieces makes shopping quick and easy. It was a must for me to feature this great Roosevelt Jacket that is part of their fall line. The color itself is so rich! Shown in a burnt red hue, this one button swing coat is great for this time of year. It goes perfectly over a fitted tee or in the later winter months over your favorite turtleneck. The bell sleeves and side slit pockets are just icing on the cake.

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So whether you have plenty to spend or are on a tight budget this winter, there is something out there for everyone. Take advantage of the style expertise of these great stores right here in the capital city, youʼll be glad you did. Bundling up never looked so good.

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BABY! orrison nda M a m A By

ew events are chronicled in the family photo album like visits to Santa. For every year of life, snapshots by Polaroid and little green elves helped loving mothers and fathers carefully record our growth by how we fit on the lap of that white-bearded man in his red velvet suit. Santa is our first glimpse into the life-lesson of positive reinforcement. He encourages us to be good and rewards that behavior. Furthermore, we learn our first interview skills, as we have to sell ourselves when asked if we’ve been good. From this, we also learn the importance of first impressions. This occasion is one where mom did not have to bargain with me to sleep in those pink spongy curlers. Cautiously, my head hit the pillow, and full of anticipation, I was suddenly unaware of my hair curling discomfort. Along those lines, years later with my Dorothy Hamilton inspired ‘do, I donned my faux rabbit fur coat, Lee jeans and Kangaroo sneakers so Santa could witness my style and more importantly, know what kind of clothes to bring down the chimney.

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That was the thing about Santa: in just a few minutes, with his undivided attention, I would read my list to him and on Christmas morning, without fail, he delivered. Fully engaged to my every whim, he would considerately pass along my list if he had something else scheduled for his sleigh. Never was this more apparent than the year my grandmother (widowed for some time) and my aunt and cousins from Arizona came to be with us on Christmas morning. This was the year I told Santa I wanted a Care Bear, and he must have passed that news on to my grandmother, because as my older sister and cousins ripped the paper off of our gifts from her, they found beautiful store bought dolls and mine, well…it was a hand-made, khaki stuffed look-a-like Care Bear. The McCall’s pattern ‘Love-a Lot’ was not fooling me. First of all, the “real” Care Bear should have been pink, not a lovely shade of brown. Second, my sister and cousins mocked me with their store bought baby dolls of perfection. Too young to appreciate my grandmother‘s sentimental gesture, my lumpy crafted bear and I settled to my Strawberry Shortcake room where I quietly cried.

I realize I tell this story at the risk of sounding like an ungrateful brat, but recalling this story made me wonder what happened to that little girl who knew exactly what she wanted and was not willing to deviate from the list? More and more, I find my single friends and I are compromising our wish list and settling for the look-a-likes. Sometimes from the minute we open the package, we know the color is off and it’s not as warm and fuzzy as the real version we hoped for. Yet, we hold onto it until it’s tattered and worn, only to find we need to toss it in hopes of finding the one we’d wished for. So what happens to our childlike faith over time? The belief that we can have whatever we dream? Perhaps it’s because we’ve been dating the non-animated versions of our Christmas favorites. First we have the Frosty, as in Frosty the Snowman (or woman). He/she and their charming personality welcomes us in, parades us all over town, gets our friends involved and then without warning, melts away as quick as the morning sun, leaving us with nothing but a broomstick. Maybe our hopes were shattered by the Grinch. He/she steals our Christmas, along with our joy and self-worth in the dating process. Last, and maybe more innocently, is the Charlie Brown. Charlie is altogether a nice person, but no matter what, his best friend is a dog. Any man that puts a dog over a woman is suspect. This trait speaks volumes for his ability to communicate in a real, loving relationship and realize, as his human counterpart, you will only get so far. Just like the cartoon, Snoopy will forever be in the doghouse, so what makes you think you will fare any better? So, during this holiday season, as single adults let’s encourage ourselves to stay true to what we believe in and never settle for anything less. After all, our perfect gift is not featured in the Sears catalog but written on our hearts for a lifetime.

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connections

Holiday Traditions By Jamie “JT” Thompson

Regardless of the hustle and bustle, the Holidays are also the one time of the year to reflect on where you have been and where you are going in the future - and to spend time making memories with the ones you love. I’ve been accused of being similar to Clark Griswold in the movie “Christmas Vacation” when it comes to December 25th! Minus about 25,000 twinkling lights, we have a lot in common. Do you remember the scene where he’s in the attic watching the old 35mm reels of Christmas from years gone by and crying? That is some sentimental stuff, my friends! That’s me! Clark Griswold may be the “King of Holiday Traditions,” but I’m sure there are still some he hasn’t thought of yet. That’s why we asked our listeners and RSVP readers to share some of theirs this year! Here are some of our favorites....

“My husband and I have a very retro tradition. Each year we dig out my old Gene Autry record from 1957 with all of its scratches and hisses and we play it on my childhood record player while we decorate our Christmas tree. It’s great hanging the ornaments we made as children, while listening to music the way we did as children. And we simg every tune!”

“I like helping kids. Last year we collected Toys for Tots all over Central Alabama for the Marine Corps. The year before that we hosted a food drive for those less fortunate during the holidays. There is always someone worse off than you at Christmas!” - Jim S. Millbrook, AL

“Growing up my dad always worked during the holidays including New Years Eve. So my mom and us (sister and brother) would have our own celebration of screwdrivers (WITHOUT the vodka) and salami sandwiches. We continue this celebration now with my family and always call my mom on New Years Eve telling her we are eating salami sandwiches and drinking OJ .” –Jeffry P., Montgomery, AL

- Ashley L. Montgomery, AL

“After a traditional Thanksgiving meal and everyone is stuffed to the gills, we load up (young and old) and head out bowling. Everyone scurries to get socks out of granddad’s drawer. Some match, some don’t…some fit, some don’t. We bowl two games with bumpers for the little ones, and we have a blast. There have been times when we have been the only ones at the bowling alley. Believe it or not, we usually eat more food. For the little ones, it is the highlight of Thanksgiving.” – Bobbie S. Montgomery, AL

“Christmas cookies! Ok, any cookies for that matter! George Strait did a song by that same name “Christmas Cookies!” I love George Strait, and I love cookies, so I listen to George and bake the cookies and then try not to eat them all before Christmas! “ - Kelly F. Montgomery, AL

“Two words - BLACK FRIDAY! We make our Christmas list on Thanksgiving Day, search out the sales, get our battle gear on at 3am and head out the door! We don’t come back home until our holiday shopping is DONE! I still have a $10 VCR from last year if anyone wants it...” - Teresa C. Montgomery, AL

“Remembering the reason for the season! And making sure that my kids know Santa may be the celebrity, but he’s not the star!” - Kim B. - Wetumpka, AL

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“Taking ALL the gifts to be professionally wrapped a few days before Christmas! The Humane Society normally does a fundraiser. They save me! I try, but I am NOT supposed to wrap presents! Five years ago I tried, and it was not pretty! Pro Wrappers ever since!” - Bill H. Montgomery, AL

“My family (father, mother, sister & I) have a tradition that on the night of Christmas Eve we all open a gift of new pajamas, which are color coordinated so that on Christmas morning when pictures are taken we all kind of match; this Christmas being the 23rd year of our little tradition.” - Daniel B., Montgomery, AL

“We go to EVERY Breakfast with Santa that we hear about! You can never miss a chance to talk to the Big Guy and enjoy delicious pancakes at the same time. At least that’s what my 7-year-old tells me! And I’m not complaining!” - Rachel K. Montgomery, AL

On Christmas Eve, my brother-inlaw, Reid Fields and I go to Midnight Mass at Holy Spirit and then last minute Santa shopping at Walgreen’s since its open 24 hours. Santa always feels like there isn’t enough after Mass, and I guarantee there is plenty already! - Laura W. Montgomery, AL

“We wrap up a pair of ridiculous reindeer earmuffs! Somebody in the family gets them every year. It’s always fun to see who’s going to be stuck looking like an idiot the following winter! LOVE the Gag Gifts!” - Joey D. Prattville, AL

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Beating the “Holiday Half-Dozen” As we enter the holiday season, we enter the season of the perilous “holiday half dozen”—that six-pound weight gain that comes as the product of conspicuous consumption during the holidays. Hey, who can blame you? All that delicious food at grandma’s house and all those delectable bites at all those holiday parties are too much to resist, right? Well, the good folks at Express Fitness, Metro Fitness, and Resolution Fitness Camp have banded together to provide some essential health and fitness tips to help you avoid this holiday weight peril:

Tips from Kirk Anderson of Express Fitness:

What weight is good weight? When it comes to losing weight, how many pounds you lose isn’t as important as what those pounds are made of. For example, if you lose 10 pounds, but half the weight is muscle, your metabolism is going to suffer. That’s because, pound for pound, muscle burns more calories than fat. Surprisingly, the frequency at which you eat when dieting affects the type of weight you lose. In a British Journal of Nutrition study, weight-loss participants who ate frequent meals preserved considerably more lean muscle tissue than those who ate fewer daily meals but consumed the same number of calories. A separate Scandinavian study found similar results when testing two different weightloss diets on a group of athletes. Although all of them lost equal amounts of weight, those who ate fewer meals lost mostly lean muscle tissue. The participants who ate more frequent meals lost almost all fat tissue, preserving their precious calorie-burning muscle. The lesson: keep your metabolism revved and blast pounds by eating regularly.

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Avoid the Late-Night Snack! Those eight hours after your head hits the pillow aren’t just for dreaming. While you sleep, your body actually repairs and rebuilds your muscles. But if you eat too close to bedtime, your body will spend its energy digesting the food in your tummy and not recuperating your muscles. Worse yet, your metabolism slows at night, which means many of the calories you eat late in the evening will be stored as fat. Unfortunately, many of us are late-night snackers and need to learn to overcome these urges. The most important thing you can do is eat enough during your day. Skipping meals will slow down your metabolism and make you susceptible to late-night binges. Many people eat a lot before bedtime not because they’re hungry, but because they are bored, tired, lonely, or depressed. Ask yourself if you are truly hungry before you even step into the kitchen or dip into your snack stash.

Lift the Weights, Drop the Weight! Lifting weights isn’t what it used to be. Nowadays it’s less about grunting, sweaty, over-muscled men and more about getting toned, burning fat and boosting your metabolism. In fact, a lot of evidence supports the value of adding resistance training to your fitness regimen – especially where belly fat is concerned. Take this study for example: Researchers in Korea found that combining aerobic training with resistance training decreased fat – particularly belly fat – better than aerobic training alone. The researchers divided a group of 30 obese women aged 40-45 into three groups: an aerobic-only (cardio) group, a combinedexercise (cardio plus resistance training) group, and a control (no exercise) group. At the end of 24 weeks, the researchers found that the control group increased their body fat percentage. The aerobic-only group lost body fat but did not increase their lean body mass. The combined-exercise group significantly increased their lean body mass, decreased their body fat percentage, and lost two and a half times as much belly fat as the aerobic-only group. Talk about a good reason to pick up those dumbbells!

Tips from Dru Sandy of MetroFitness: Staying fit during the holidays can be done! The holidays are a time of celebration…and my how we celebrate! We eat, we drink, we indulge and then we end up feeling like bloated whales by the time it is all over. It’s almost as though a voice announces: “Let the eating commence and let exercise become a thing of the past!” This year you have a choice. You don’t have to let every party become your own personal eating contest and you don’t have to let holiday events and preparations take the place of your usual exercise routine. All it takes is flexibility, creativity and a new way of defining exercise.

Short on time? * Whether you have 20 minutes or just 10, get in cardio! Work as hard as you can in that time, keeping the intensity high. * Don’t forget to strength train. Maintain muscle mass by paring down your routine to the basics. Choose compound, multi-joint movements to make sure you are getting the most out of your time. Use every opportunity to get in more movement. *Slap on a pedometer or Bodybugg and see how many steps you can accumulate or calories you can burn running around on errands, wrapping gifts, decoratingevery bit counts! *Use the stairs, park your car far away, do squats while drying your hair or brushing your teeth, dance around your house to holiday music!

Relieve stress with a group exercise class. *A fun group exercise class always seems to lighten your mood and relieve stress. MetroFitness packs its December schedule with special holiday classes- Sock It To Me, Holiday Karaoke Cycle, Kickbox Out 2009, Pre and Post Holiday Fat Burner, Jingle Bell Rock, just to name a few.

Control your eating.

*Eat a filling snack before you hit a holiday party. You will be less tempted to overindulge if your belly is full with something healthy. *Choose one treat, and make it good. Pick something you only get during the holidays. *Calories from alcohol add up fast. Have a glass of water for every drink you consume and with out a doubt avoid eggnog, it has up to 350 calories a cup!

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Shula’s Steak House

Riverchase Galleria Mall

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However you deal with the holidays, make this the year you do not gain extra weight. Make a decision to do everything you can to stay active and eat healthy while not depriving yourself of all the fun. Like everything else in life, it’s all about moderation. Tips from Donna Franklin and Corey Ellis of Resolution Fitness:

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The average person gains 5-7 lbs during the holiday season. No wonder there is such a need for all the New Year’s Resolutions to lose weight. Gaining weight does not have to be an option. Prevent the weight gain during the holiday season with these 10 things to do during the holiday to beat the bulge: 1. Plan to avoid weight gain. Do not psyche yourself out to gain weight. Placing yourself in the right frame of thinking is most of the battle. 2. Go ahead and buy that New Year’s outfit. Trying on clothes is one of the best ways to keep you on track from gaining weight. If you want to wear that outfit, you will think twice before blowing your exercise routine and indulge in overeating. 3. Join an exercise program. There are many options like Resolution Fitness that offer accountability. You will need to just make time to exercise. You will reduce all the holiday stress and keep yourself from gaining weight from all those extra activities. Try exercises early in the morning. You are less likely to have something come up. 4. Do not skip meals during the holidays. Skipping meals will cause you to overeat at company parties and family gatherings. 5. Drink water. It will give you a full feeling and keep you from overeating. 6. Power walk while you shop. Add a little pep in your step while you shop. You can do what you love and burn some extra calories at the same time. 7. Increase your exercise intensity. If you are short on time, participating in short bouts of high intensity exercise can be just as effective as one long session. Add compound exercises to your strength training workout to save on time. Hire a personal trainer or ask other fitness professionals to help you design a program. 8. Focus on socializing at gatherings. It is hard to talk if you have a load of food in your mouth. It will also be a great way to get to know your family and co-workers. Keeping the weight off is possible. It just takes planning. If you make the time and plan to succeed, you can still enjoy the holiday season minus the extra 5 - 7 lbs.

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Frugal,

Festive, &

Fabulous by Amanda Morrison

Photography by Darren Freeman

e listen to economists spread doom and gloom about the financial state of the globe, so the Holiday Season is a refreshing opportunity to turn our focus to a time of year synonymous with wishing, hoping and believing. The very origin of the event is The Gift of perfect love, so no matter how green (or not) your bank account, there is still reason for celebration. Given our current circumstances, when we all know people without employment or with businesses suffering, do we know how to express without the excess?

counts in life; that even amidst financial bankruptcy, we can still be rich in the strong bonds of our relationships.

Recently encouraging studies have emerged a new trend, showing that families become closer during financial decline, and thereby happier as individuals. Struggles allow us the unique opportunity to grow in strength of character, and in overcoming adversity, we grow more confident. News like this demonstrates even more of what really

Home is the epicenter for the holidays, and what better way to capture Christmas cheer than surrounding yourself with visuals that remind you of all the reasons to smile and be happy. To inspire your décor, we can take advice from Montgomery’s own elf--whose magic can only be ordained by Santa himself.

So what kind of Christmas fits the bill when you have to continually track each dollar you spend? No matter where you find yourself financially, Christmas 2009 is about the spirit of family, friends, fun, and putting the emphasis on what matters most: the gift of love.

I’ll Be Home…

You have not experienced Christmas until you have walked through Lee Ann Turner’s designs in the cheerful displays of her showroom at Leanne’s Interiors. Even before the blueprints were drawn for the gorgeous Mediterranean-style building on Vaughn, her kick-off to Christmas in a low key shopping center was a show-stopper. Crazy for Christmas and with an open-house tradition 14 years and running, her team spends weeks preparing flights of whimsy and wonder, a true feast for your eyes.

Deb Watson’s “Fabulous Tree” Photographed by Terry Ballant

A Christmas enthusiast and interior design professional, what is most charming is Leanne’s ability to be in tune with the economic climate, and this year she plans to offer a more affordable line of holiday home décor. “We have all been

affected and know people out of work this holiday season. This year my focus was to feature ornaments and decorations starting at $10, so everyone could put their emphasis on family as it should be.” Lee Ann continued to reminisce about the days when she first became a business woman, remembering years when her daughter was younger and she would swing by the local grocer and bring home cookies instead of baking them herself. While she’s an excellent chef, instead of mixing up dough in the kitchen, Leanne gave up home-made treats to spend more time at mixers with her precious girl and devoted husband. Her ability to be flexible and resist baking, placing family first, sets Leanne apart as an entrepreneur and gives us an important lesson

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during these hard holiday times. While we may have to scale back from the ideal, we are only compromising if we neglect the joy that comes from simply being together. Lee Ann’s Interiors will host their Holiday Open House on November 5th, where the 2009 theme is Home for the Holidays. The visual splendor scheduled for this year is warm and traditional with an edge, to show that affordability is far from boring. Serving all the trimmings for a festive home with a personal touch, browse Lee Ann’s showroom for a new tradition, where at the very least you will walk away with the desire to get your own decorations out of the attic and hug someone you love.

… For Christmas The guiding theme this year is to draw near to those closest to you and make it more about cherishing the free gifts of love and togetherness over monetary gestures of appreciation. Try to enjoy the relaxed climate and shop a little, but laugh a lot. If you’re hosting a party, ask others to pitch in and bring a few items so you can truly enjoy the event. Mostly, try to find happiness in the absence of the flash and clutter of Christmas’ past. Your true wealth is measured in who you are and how you treat others, not by mere gifts presented from your favorite on-line outlet or department store. Instead of worrying about the financial state of the globe, let’s shake the one on our coffee tables with Santa inside, watch the paper “snow” fall, and smile at one of life’s small joys. Even if times are tough, a Blue Christmas for retailers can mean a happier one for you.

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Twelve by Janine Schoudel

Forget what your true love gave to thee… this year is all about doing something special for the ones on your list. For a twist on the hoe-hum, we suggest indulging in the following seasonal fun:

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Celebrate the season with A Christmas Story at Alabama Shakespeare Festival. They triple-dog dare you to bring out the whole clan to spend a hilarious holiday with a family even more dysfunctional than yours.

Capital City Christmas Parade & 190th Birthday Celebration – Enjoy the Governorʼs Tree Lighting Ceremony at the State Capitol, parade, and fireworks!

Attend Christmas on the Coosa - the annual Christmas extravaganza with arts and crafts, street parade, food concessions, handmade quilt show, classic car show, entertainment and activities on the Coosa River culminating with a spectacular fireworks exhibition at dusk.

Relax and have Eastside Grille cater your holiday party- they will deliver, set up, clean up, provide food servers, bartenders and cook on or off- site. All you have to do is invite your loved ones!

Cruise with Santa on the Harriott II. Enjoy dinner,

Gather at LUNA – a tapas restaurant with friends

Join the Montgomery Humane Society – what

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spending time with Santa, cookies and cocoa while coasting down the Alabama River.

and make your day truly festive by enjoying a Christmas Tini.

better excuse to show off your furry family member than in a Christmas card posing with Santa at PetSmart?

Take pictures with Santa then relax and watch a holiday movie at The Montgomery Performing Arts Centre.

Meet up with friends and family for the 18th Annual Christmas Light Festival! Thousands of Holiday Lights illuminate The Montgomery Zoo in shapes of animals and Christmas themes. Enjoy live entertainment, food, gifts, and pictures with Santa.

Call Peppertree Steaks Nʼ Wines and have them

Join Southern Homes & Gardens for their Annual

prepare a holiday gift basket piled high with gourmet goodies. This is perfect for employers, neighbors, friends, and party hosts.

Christmas Open House - where the tri-county areaʼs most exquisite selection of ornaments, decor, accessories, ribbon & more will be available. Enjoy holiday tunes, tastings & more!

Take a Christmas Light Tour with Touch of Class! Spend the evening in a limousine taking in the lights of our River Region or a trip to Callaway Gardens.

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socially SEEN (events planned by RSVP Montgomery)

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Cindy Wilson Christian Elliott �� Photography by Nikki P. Photography

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Meet the Young Professionals and Business Leaders who bring Culture and Energy to our Area.

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By Blue Sullivan Photography by Josh Moates â&#x20AC;˘ Kim Box Photography NOV/DEC 2009 RSVP 41

DELBERT MADISON With the banking industry recovering from a year of turmoil, Delbert Madison, Vice President of Cash Management at ServisFirst Bank, is one of the success stories that inspire hope. His duties are prodigious; Delbert must identify client needs, propose cash management solutions, manage client-pricing strategies, and present cash management products to keep his clients abreast of all the options available to them. With a BS degree in Marketing from Alabama State University, Delbert had to be patient to get an opportunity in his chosen field, but it was worth the wait. “The thing I love about my job is having the opportunity to assist my clients with managing their daily cash position by investing their idle monies,” he notes. Asked to attribute the reasons for his success, he lists his parents, Dwight and Katie Madison, as primary influences. He praises his late professor, Mr. Arthur Barnett of ASU, as well. “Mr. Barnett’s training prepared his students academically, mentally, and socially, so that we could accomplish anything in life.” In his time outside of work, Delbert is actively involved in his community. He currently serves as one of the leaders of Southside Church of Christ, where he served as youth director for 21 years. He is the President of the newly formed Leadership Montgomery Mayor’s Council, Vice Chairman of the board at the Southeast YMCA, and he mentors youth through the 100 Black Men organization. At home, Delbert has a lovely wife of 15 years, Kim, and two sons, Delbert II (age 15) and Damien (age 9).

CHRISTEN PRICE “Think globally, act locally” is a popular axiom, and it’s one lived every day by Christen Price, Income Development Representative for the American Cancer Society. Christen began working for ACS in Birmingham as a Health Initiatives Representative, where she got to work first-hand with cancer patients. When she moved to Montgomery, Christen transferred into her current position where she raises funds for ACS through the signature fund-raisers, Relay For Life (which raised over $270,000 in Montgomery and Autauga counties last year), and the Jr. Executive Board’s “Bite the Tail off Cancer” Crawfish Boil. “I am thankful for the opportunity to have served in both of these positions,” Christen explains. “I have a true understanding of how the money we raise helps our local cancer patients.” Graduating with a degree in Communications from Auburn in 2006, Christen has since made the most of her time in the River Region. “I love that this job allows me to interact with so many different people in Montgomery. We at ACS heavily rely on our volunteers to help us accomplish our goals, so I have the opportunity to work with individuals from all walks of life.” In addition to her crucial work, Christen is a member of Junior League of Montgomery, the Emerge Membership Committee, and serves as a Small Group Leader at the St. James United Methodist Church. At home, she and her husband, Raleigh (an architect at Seay, Seay, and Litchfield), are the proud “parents” to two dogs, Lu Lu and Obi.

JERROD DORMINEY A strong and abiding faith in Jesus led Jerrod Dorminey to answer a calling he never really imagined for himself: full-time ministry. As Worship Leader at Frazer United Methodist Church, Jerrod leads music for Frazer’s Sunday morning Contemporary Worship services and other events. “I never imagined myself to be a worship leader,” Jerrod notes. “I was in the process of getting a degree in business and owned an interior trim business, so when my wife asked me if I would ever consider being a worship leader I laughed it off.” The biggest obstacle for me was completely letting go to what the Lord was calling me to do and having the faith, trust and courage to go into full-time ministry.” Today, Jerrod wants nothing more than to be the “hands and feet” of the Lord. “There is nothing more moving to me than leading a congregation in worship and having the tables turn, where all of the sudden, the passion and energy coming from the congregation just explodes, and I am led in worship by them just as much as they are led by me.” Teaching the word of God to an ever-evolving congregation is a challenge that energizes Jerrod. “We recently started ‘The Gathering,’ a new high energy worship experience for young adults,” Jerrod enthuses. “It challenges each of us to go beyond the walls of our church and into the community to share the love of Christ through community service opportunities.” Outside of his inspiring work, Jerrod enjoys a host of activities with his wife, Abby, including whitewater kayaking and mountain biking. “I love all things outdoors.” 42

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DAVID MOWERY

Getting a congressman and a mayor elected in one town is a tall order, but it is a snap for the 6’8” political consultant, David L. Mowery. President of the Mowery Consulting Group, David has lived and worked throughout the world. He has lived in 18 different cities, including 8 states, and 2 foreign countries. Getting his degree in Newspaper Journalism from the University of Georgia, David took a job with Edelman Public Relations Worldwide in Washington, DC. That led to a job working on political races in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and New Hampshire. More recently, David worked as Finance Director for the Committee to Re-elect John M. Tyson, Jr , and the campaigns of Sam Jones for Mayor of Mobile, and John Tyson for Attorney General. David parlayed that experience into jobs as Campaign Manager for both Congressman Bobby Bright and Mayor Todd Strange. “Alabama can be a bit of a closed shop in terms of political involvement, so taking a campaign like Mayor Bright’s, where the numbers and then money were against us and honing it into a well-oiled machine that ultimately prevailed in a strikingly Republican district was a definite boost to my success. To turn around and work against the logic of the numbers and elect Todd Strange as Mayor pushed my stock higher.” David decided to capitalize on his good fortune and success and founded the Mowery Consulting Group in June of this year. He credits wife, Michelle, as being a great source of strength and inspiration. “Meeting her, getting married and settling down in Montgomery allowed me to focus on what I wanted professionally, and brought all of my disparate personality traits to focus on being the best campaign manager/consultant I could be.” In addition to his remarkable career success, David and Michelle welcomed a new addition to the family this year—son Matthew George Mowery, born August 3rd. RSVP NOV/DEC 2009

MANDY BAGWELL The story of Mandy Bagwell, Artist and Owner of M. Bagwell Gallery, is a threefold triumph—as a famed artist, savvy businesswoman, and devoted mother. In fact, it was the latter demand that inspired the beginnings of her business and artistic achievements. Upon anticipating the birth of her first child, Mandy turned to her paints to create a design for a nursery that was reminiscent of the vibrant designs of her own childhood home. The response from friends and associates was so enthusiastic that Mandy knew she had found her calling. Over the years, Mandy’s gallery and business have expanded from a dining room studio to a 10,000 square foot warehouse and M.Bagwell products are now being sold in over 1500 stores across the country. Today, her whimsical, radiant designs adorn everything from dinnerware to linens and clothing. A graduate of Auburn University with a degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Art, Mandy has incorporated these two seemingly distinct elements into all facets of both her work and her life. She laughs and says “Juggling being a full-time mother of three with being an entrepreneur, artist and business owner, this is an art in itself”. Her children-- Hannon (11), John (7), and Margaret (2)—are a daily source of inspiration. “Every day I love going to work and I love every part of what I do. It’s great that it’s flexible, and I can be with my children when I need to.” To see her bright fusion of art and family, visit Mandy’s website at www.mbagwellart.com.

ANGELA STIFF As founder of Copperwing, one of Montgomery’s leading communication firms, Angela Stiff knows the importance of strategic and creative thinking. Her firm serves local, regional, and national accounts including Neptune Technology Group, Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, Schreiber, Jackson Thornton and Centro Properties Group. Angela’s brand-building has been recognized with Communicator Awards, ADDY awards from the American Advertising Federation (AAF), and the Starr Award from the Montgomery chapter of the Public Relations Council of Alabama (PRCA). She has been named three times as Designer of the Year and twice as Copywriter of the Year by the local AAF chapter. A proud graduate of Auburn University, Angela earned a BFA there in Visual Communications. What is the secret to Angela’s impressive success? “I come from a long line of entrepreneurs,” Angela explains. “I grew up dreaming of owning a business and having a passion for my work. My family has supported my aspirations every step of the way.” She also credits her partner, Nell Rankin. “Nell is an amazing strategic brain, and I could not have grown the company to this point so quickly without her.” Locally, Angela is involved with several organizations of note. She has served as Montgomery Advertising Federation’s president twice, and has also served on the board of AGAPE. At Christmas, she helps to support the efforts of the Alabama Institute for the Deaf by playing “Santa” each year for children in need.

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JAMI M. LEWIS No matter what the economy, a perfect hairstyle is always in demand, and no one knows more about finding that ideal coiffure than Jami Lewis, Owner and Master Stylist at Amplify Salon and Spa. Aveda trained since 1996, Jami apprenticed under Robert Miller of Itz Robertz Salon and became a Master Stylist with continuing education in 2001. In June of 2008, she became the proprietor of her own salon, a definite change from her experience as a stylist. “It’s a scary thing when you have been in this industry for 13 years and have made a name for yourself as a stylist and suddenly find yourself with a different role,” Jami explains. “Having to let go of something that has been a part of me for so long and shift focus to the business aspect has been challenging, yet rewarding.” Locating her new venture in the heart of Old Cloverdale at the A&P Lofts proved a sparkling success. “In our first year of business, the community of Old Cloverdale has embraced us and has supported our business. The location has been wonderful!” Wishing to give something back to the city that has supported her so much, Jami created the “Cuts for a Cure” event, a charitable event recently held at One Court Square in downtown Montgomery. While there, Jami and her staff exchanged expert services for donations to the Joy to Life Foundation, raising nearly $13,000. Crediting her strong Christian faith as her greatest inspiration, Jami is equally quick to praise her husband, Michael Lewis, and their 13 year old son, Jordan Chance. “They really keep me going!”

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MICHAEL K. BOWMAN, MD With health care the preeminent issue on the current political stage, it is good to know that the River Region has the invaluable expertise of physicians like Dr. Michael Bowman. Specializing in Otolaryngology (ENT) Head & Neck Surgery and Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, the good doctor first cultivated his love of helping patients through his exemplary education, graduating with a degree in Biology from Dartmouth College before achieving his medical degree from the Duke University School of Medicine. After doing his residency at the University of Alabama, Michael started his practice in Montgomery. “I enjoy the wide variety of challenges that come my way on a regular basis,” he notes when asked what he most enjoys about his practice. “In one day I might see patients ranging in age from few months to 90+ years. Problems may range from relatively minor to life threatening. Surgery provides an opportunity to definitively solve a problem for patients and improve their quality of life.” He and his wife, Jennifer, are actively involved in the Jackson Hospital Foundation, and are planning a medical mission trip next year through Kenya Relief. They are also the proud parents of three—Dylan (11 years old), Aiden (4), and Mirra (2). “Montgomery has been overwhelmingly generous to both me and my family. From the moment we arrived, we have been delighted by the kind words and actions that have poured out from the community from all directions.”

CASSANDRA CROSBY-MCCULLOUGH In this frenetic modern business world, it is essential to know how to network, make contacts, and juggle multiple projects at once. Of course, if you don’t happen to have that skill set, you may want to call Cassandra McCullough. Cassandra is not only a principal partner in the Crosby Drinkard Group, a governmental relations firm, but she is also the CEO of CCI Consultants, LLC, specializing in event planning, fundraising, and marketing. A graduate of Troy University of Montgomery, Cassandra worked for over a decade within the halls of state government, working for three agencies under the administrations of James, Siegelman and Riley. After 10 years, Cassandra took the relationships she had cultivated and began her consulting business. She now represents governmental agencies, non-profits, community based organizations, colleges and universities as clients. In addition, Cassandra owns The Quarters, an executive office building in the heart of downtown that is designed for start up businesses, but also open to small special events. “There’s no such word as can’t,” she insists when asked how she handles such a daunting work load. “This is something I have worked hard to instill in my kids. You can do whatever you put your mind to, but you can’t do anything without God.” This hard-working, benevolent impulse extends to Cassandra’s charitable work as well. She is a board member of the Leadership Montgomery Executive Board, the Capital City Club Board of Governors, the American Red Cross of Central Alabama, Bridge Builders, and is the founder of the Capital City Women’s Group. Recently married to Lt. B.J. McCullough, Cassandra has three wonderful kids at home--daughter Ashley, son Adam, and a stepdaughter named Ashley too!

LOGAN DI TURNER The River Region has always had its own ever-developing style, and the challenge to stay modern yet accessible is what motivates Logan Di Turner, Owner of Amore’ Boutique. “I love it when someone walks in the door and just needs a rejuvenating look,” Logan enthuses. “I take them and reinvent their style, and they leave feeling like they were in another place.” Logan’s path to becoming an eminent local fashionista began while working for her mother, Lee Ann, at Lee Ann’s Interiors for many years, both before and after college. It was with her guidance and encouragement that Logan started up Amore in June 2008. As for the boutique’s growing success, Logan credits the support of the community with helping her through the rough times. “In April, Amore’ was temporarily shut down due to an accident that destroyed my part of the building.” Logan recounts. “So many people came to me and offered support throughout the rebuilding process. This tragic event enabled me to rejuvenate the look of my store and ultimately take Amore’ to a whole new level.” A Business graduate of Southern Union College, Logan is currently furthering her education at Troy State University of Montgomery. She also works with local charities such as Montgomery Aids Outreach, Brantwood Children’s Home, and Vintage Affair. At home, Logan has her own furry “family” with her miniature schnauzer Bernie and weimereiner Kennedy.

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by Blue Sullivan

hen Jeremy Pharo first came to MANE (Montgomery Area Non-Traditional Equestrians), he wasn’t exactly an extrovert. The 27year-old suffers from Asperger’s Syndrome, a severe form of autism. During his first visit, Jeremy wouldn’t speak or make eye contact with the counselors unless expressly told to by his mother. A muttered “hello” and “goodbye” were the most he could muster to say. Prior to enrolling Jeremy in the program, his parents had searched for sixteen years for a way to help him. At an Autism Support Group meeting, they were told about MANE, a therapeutic program for children and adults with disabilities that teaches them how to ride horses. A little over a year later, Jeremy’s success in the program has been such that the once shy & introverted young man (who previously wouldn’t make eye contact and barely spoke a word) recently gave a speech in front of counselors and volunteers about the tremendous impact that MANE has had on him. “Once I had a hard time talking to people,” Jeremy noted. “But now through all of the help from everyone at MANE, I’m the one who initiates the conversation.” Speaking to Anne Alan Duncan, Program Director for MANE, one discovers that Jeremy’s story is only one of many examples of the life-changing work done through the 48

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facility. Anne Alan tells of a six year old girl who signed her first word while on one of MANE’s horses. “Yellow,” the child said, describing the horse. Ms. Duncan’s eyes light up as she describes another success story involving a girl born with spina bifida. Twelve years old when she started the program, the girl initially needed constant care and assistance from staff when attempting to saddle, mount, and ride her horse. Now 14, the girl is able to do all of these things entirely on her own. Moreover, the teenager now helps staff with some of the younger, less experienced riders. MANE serves more than 90 children and adults a week at its Pike Road facility, one of only three North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) Premier Riding Centers in the state of Alabama. It is comprised of three NARHA certified staff, 14 equine partners and thousands of volunteers. Volunteers come in all ages, from 7 to 70+, and with varying degrees of experience. Novices and experienced volunteers are equally welcome, and the variety of backgrounds among volunteers is seemingly endless. As an example, Anne Alan points out three volunteers working with a young child nearby. The three are a banker, a personal trainer, and a Huntingdon basketball player, respectively. Shortly thereafter, a fresh-faced African-American

teenaged girl shows up for her first day as a volunteer. “Everyone is welcome and very much appreciated,” Anne Alan says, smiling. Classes at MANE are of five different types— physical, sensory integration, cognitive, social/ emotional, and sport—although Anne Alan is careful to note that there is shared qualities among all. “Our clients have heard about their supposed limitations all their lives. But they don’t hear can’t or won’t here. Our classes are designed to help them overcome limitations.” When asked what aspect of horse riding is most beneficial to her clients, Anne Alan explains that, because a horse’s gait more closely approximates that of a human’s than any other animal, physically disabled riders see improved balance, core strength, and range of motion. For cognitively disabled riders, horse riding engages all the senses in a way that develops greater concentration, patience, self-discipline, motivation, and self-confidence. “There’s just something empowering about sitting on a thousand pound animal and getting it to go where you want it to.” Anne Alan notes. MANE is currently ramping up for the unveiling of its new covered barn and office facilities at a charity gala on November 14th.

For more information: visit www.maneweb.org

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By Blue Sullivan As we barrel headlong into the holiday season, this installment of the Triple-L is, like Santa’s bag of goodies, stuffed extra tight with choice morsels to stuff into various stockings of your choosing. Or give this list to your loved ones and ask— nay, demand—that they purchase these reasonably priced tokens of their affection for you. If they don’t comply and you still find your stocking lacking, might I suggest getting new loved ones?

LOOK: “Hyperdrive” – Seasons 1&2, On DVD For the science fiction fan in your life, “Hyperdrive” is a British TV series that follows the comic adventures of a flight crew aboard a UK starship about 500 years in the future. Imagine “Star Trek” meets “Monty Python” in deep space, and you have a good idea of the wry amusements available here. Available on Amazon.

LISTEN: Low – “Little Drummer Boy” These Mormons from Utah turn this holiday classic into the most haunting, yet breathtakingly beautiful take on the song ever recorded. Once used to soundtrack a holiday Gap ad, the song is best experienced at night with only the lights of the Christmas tree providing illumination.

Glasvegas - Glasvegas (Album) These brilliant indie songsmiths from Scotland provide the handsdown best debut album in many years. Currently opening on tour for Kings of Leon, Glasvegas combines elements of timeless rock n’ roll: soaring vocals, walls of glittering guitar, and choruses the world can sing. Buy it for someone who loves great modern music.

Basement Jaxx – “Raindrops” This priceless bit of dance starsailing comes courtesy of the decade-long house music legends from the UK. Made up of equal parts India-flavored mysticism, thumping beats, and vocoder magic, “Raindrops” sounds a bit like Cher’s “Believe” given a wickedly funky, absolutely contemporary twist.

READ: “The Bro Code” Hey ladies, are you ready to crack the secret language that separates you from the man you love? Have you ever wondered what he and the fellas talk about when you aren’t around? Look no further than this helpful guide, which decodes the inner lives and vernacular of men everywhere. If you don’t have the time to read it yourself, then give it to that special man in your life. He has to read something while you’re shopping, right?

LOUNGE: Mary B’s Buffet 3428 Atlanta Highway This fantastic “meat and three”-style buffet nestled in the Forest Hills Shopping Center provides the kind of delicious, home-made meals you usually only get at Grandma’s house. Mary B’s Buffet offers lunch Monday through Friday, and again on Sunday, with different offerings each day, along with certain essential choices every day. Worthy of special mention are their succulent fried chicken, black-eyed peas, and seemingly endless assortment of desserts. If you want to be assured a great home-style meal during the holidays, don’t chance it with the in-laws--go to Mary B’s.

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Friends,Trends, ODDS & ENDS Ritual of Relief & Celebrate with Color

Salon y f i l p m A

Decorate with

Hue Studio

With all of the shopping, parties, decorating, and cooking that comes along with the joy of the holiday season, you must go by Amplify Salon and Spa to pick up the “Ritual of Relief” gift set by Aveda. The set includes a bottle of hand and foot relief lotion, as well as a smaller size just right for traveling! Also, if you are looking for the perfect lip color this season, “Celebrate with Color” by Aveda includes three ideal shades for every skin tone. The collection includes a warm, cool, and neutral shade of lip gloss. Both sets are perfect stocking stuffers! Gift sets available for purchase at Amplify Salon and Spa located in Old Cloverdale on Graham Street.

Hue Studio, located in the Peppertree Shopping Center off Vaughn Road, has some unique decorating items perfect for giving your home “the most wonderful time of the year” feel. For an inexpensive and fun activity for the whole family, the Department pop-up Christmas garland kit is a special way to give your tree your own personalized touch. The Roost black beaded mistletoe goes great above any doorway, and the set of nutcracker ornaments are a must for your tree décor. For items pictured and other great holiday trimmings, visit Hue Studio for your holiday decorating essentials!

The first annual Montgomery Half marathon sponsored by Hyundai Motor Manufacturing was a huge success with 1,083 runners! The race festivities began with a street party on Friday night and ended with a post-race celebration held at the Amphitheater with food by Jim ‘N Nick’s. Scott Strand, age 41, was the first to cross the finish line in 1:10:39. The proceeds benefitted the Kid One Transport Organization.

Filet & Vine

The first wine acquisition event for the American Cancer Society’s Vintage Affair 2010 was held at Filet & Vine on September 10th. Gina and Jim Izer, the 2010 Cellar Club chairpersons, and guests sampled various vintage wines and enjoyed hors d’oeurves while purchasing 119 bottles of wine to donate. These wines (as well as others) will be auctioned off at the Vintage Affair on February 6, 2010.

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Live Music on Patio Wednesday - Saturday ��

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The City of Montgomery

EVENTS See what’s happening! “Your City at work, so you can play”

With the holidays approaching, the city of Montgomery has plenty of holiday fun for all. The Museum of Fine Arts will have special dance performances on November 4 and 5 and their Holiday Reception with complimentary champagne desserts and local artists on November 12. Another great event at the Museum is their 14th annual Holiday Open House on December 5 with performances by local choral groups and other festive activities. The Parks and Recreation Department of the city has plenty to offer those looking for physical activity. The Auburn-Alabama golf tournament will kick off at Lagoon Park at 8:00 a.m. with a shotgun start. Mark your calendar now for December 4 Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Capital, followed by the Captital City Christmas Parade and Fireworks Spectacular. Also throughout December, thousands of holiday lights will illuminate The Montgomery Zoo in shapes of animals and Christmas themes. See the beautiful displays by train or by foot. On the River, The Harriott II Riverboat will be offering several dates to cruise with Santa Claus before he departs to the North Pole. Check out the calendar below for even more to see and do in our beautiful capital city.

Montgomery ZOO and Mann Wildlife Learning MUSEUM Events The 18th Annual Christmas Light Festival 2009

Date: Opening night Dec 3, Event: Dec 3-6, 10-13 and 17-31 Time: 5:30pm-9:30pm Location: The City of Montgomery Zoo Sponsors: The City of Montgomery, Montgomery Zoo Friends & Sponsors Phone: (334) 240-4900 Admission: $10.00 per person (ages 3 & older; includes train ride). Ages 2 & under and Montgomery Zoo Friends FREE. Description: Thousands of Holiday Lights illuminate The Montgomery Zoo in shapes of animals and Christmas themes. See the beautiful displays by train or by foot. Enjoy live entertainment, concessions, gifts, Santa’s Craft Shop and pictures with Santa. (Santa departs for the North Pole Dec 23.)

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Special Dance Performances: Misa Criolla by the Booker T. Washington Dance Theatre November 4, 5 and 6 11 to 11:45 A.M.

Misa Criolla is a ballet based upon the classic Latin American spiritual folk art of retablos, created in connection with the exhibition A Century of Retablos: The Janis and Dennis Lyon Collection of New Mexican Santos, 1780 - 1880. During the production, choreographed by Gary Moore, reproductions of retablos will come to life in many colorful ways including costumes, scenery, and dancing. Misa Criolla is another arts in education collaboration between the Booker T. Washington Dance Department, MMFA, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Alabama State Council on the Arts.

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Museum and Cafè Holiday Reception and Open House Thursday, November 12, 2009 5 to 8 P.M.

Throughout the evening you’ll enjoy... * Complimentary Wine and Champagne * Jennie Weller Catering will have samplings of her holiday foods list and chocolate treats to delight * Local artists will be mixing and mingling and selling pieces just in time for the perfect holiday gift * Music with all of your holiday favorites

Holiday Open House at the Museum of Fine Arts Saturday, December 5, 2009 1 to 4 P.M.

The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts invites you to an afternoon of holiday cheer at the 14th annual Holiday Open House. The day’s activities will include performances by local choral groups and festive studio activities. In addition to these holiday treats, the Museum invites guests to explore the exhibitions A Century of Retablos: The Janis and Dennis Lyon Collection of New Mexican Santos, 1780-1880 and Movements in Stillness: The Still-Life Paintings of Edgar SoberÛn. Also, be sure to view the Kwanzaa and Hanukkah displays as well as the Museum’s Christmas tree, adorned with hand-made ornaments created specifically for the Museum by Alabama artists.

Lagoon Park Golf Course Alabama-Auburn Golf Tournament Friday, November 27 at Lagoon Park with an 8:00 shotgun start. Wear your team’s colors and have fun. $45 Non-members cost $30 Members cost Includes golf cart and lunch and prizes. Done by 12:45 and kickoff is at 1:30.

Armory Learning Arts Center DOOT (Doing Our Own Thing)

Visual Art Competition and Workshop Instruction Senior High Students Friday, November 6, 2009

Riverfront Facilities Cruising with Santa on the Harriot II December 8, 9, 10, 11 and 13 December 15, 16, 17, 18, and 20, 22.

There is no charge for Holiday Open House, but guests are encouraged to bring canned goods for donation to the Montgomery Area Food Bank or a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots.

Clean City Commission Event

November 6 is Electronics Recycling at Paterson Field parking from 8-2. The end of December everyone needs to start saving your Christmas Trees to recycling at the Jan. 2nd Saturday trash pickup point. Recycling of �� aluminum, paper and cardboard on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month at the Saturday free trash pick up points. December 4th we will have a float with our characters in the cities Christmas Parade.

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- a look at local sound

Jonathan

Bloom by Amanda Morrison

Photography by Julie Lowry

by Jonalan Wright Jonathan Bloom is a true find. He is a natural talent whose performances date back to his mother’s kitchen floor where as a child he delivered a passionate beat on her pots and pans with wooden spoons for as long as she’d allow. He has an ease about him and audiences quickly relate to his lyrics, simplicity of performance and mesmerizing vocals.

Emmy Lou Harris and the legendary Allman Brothers. One evening while slated before Edwin McCain, he realized the venue’s magnitude as he performed in the very spot as music icon Eric Clapton had the night before.

His journey is just as authentic as his music. A drummer with various bands, he was never one for the limelight until a lead singer moved on, forcing him front and center to charm audiences with his warm voice. It was during his time with band Joshua Stone while traveling the southeast that a Los Angeles based writer/producer, Jon Strider, noticed him and encouraged his abilities as a solo artist.

Bloom’s next endeavor found him shopping labels in Nashville but he was disenfranchised by the ways of the music business. His unsophisticated style of “what you see is what you get” was not well received by industry suits. They were not sure what genre to market him. A musical Neapolitan, he’s a little classic rock, a mix of blues, with a harmonious hint of country. So when a major label offered him a country deal and the two sides were unable to come to an agreement, he respectfully declined. He then moved back to his hometown of Alexander City and settled down as a full-time family man to his two young daughters.

Jonathan traded his sticks for strings and performed at New Orleans House of Blues as an acoustic guitarist/ vocalist. On this stage he opened for artists including

Nashville’s loss has been our gain and it was about a year ago this time when Jonathan began playing the local hot spots around Montgomery. Cultivating a following inspired

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him to complete his latest project titled Green. Bloom is not pushing a political agenda or endorsing his hybrid car, rather the track for which he named this album. His music is a blend of both life experience and trademarked wit. “Some artists write the words and then fit it to the melody. My approach is to create the melody and then the words”, said Jonathan of his songwriting process.

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Proving his desire for genuine artistry, the collection gives listeners much the same feel as his live performances. With light percussion, acoustic guitar, and his fiery harmonica, Green is a departure from Healing Power, his first solo recording. This first CD featured a full band, full of star- power. Boasting Dwight Yoakum’s bass player, Don Henley’s guitarist and produced by Eddie Money’s keyboardist, of this recording Jonathan says it was “huge, big, and the wrong time”. Never one for smoke and mirrors, Green is written, performed and produced by Bloom as a true representation of his originality. From the first serenade, it is a welcome arrival compared to the overproduced sounds we’re accustomed to these days. His instrumentation fills listeners’ space with affectionate energy; strong on melody and lyrical themes of love, loss and a better tomorrow. “My desire for this CD is to evoke a positive message to my audience and show my appreciation for those who come out and listen to my shows”, says Bloom. Scheduled for completion in November, copies of Green will be available for a $10 purchase at a release party scheduled on Wednesday the 18th at AlleyBAR.

he has an ease about him, audiences quickly relate to his lyrics, simplicity of performance, and mesmerizing vocals

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�� Continuing Education Gift Certificates Available at www.aum.edu/coned or call 244-3768

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2430 Eastern Blvd.

334-239-ROCK(7625) www.rockbottomamericanpub.com Visit us on facebook

& myspace

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when? what? where? The holidays are almost here and our River Region has many different activities and events to help you celebrate the season. Below you will find a calendar of events to help you plan your whereabouts.

November

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Nov 1 – 30 – “Carry On” 9:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M. Monday - Saturday. A new exhibit on display at Old Alabama Town’s Reception Center, honors the 20th anniversary of the Alabama State Council on the Arts’ Alabama Folk Arts Apprenticeship Program. The exhibit features portraits of 50 folk and traditional artists taken by Birmingham photographer Mark Gooch, as well as examples of the folk artists’ work. Admission is free and open to the public. www.oldalabamatown.com Nov 1 – 18 – Advanced Cake Class 6:00 – 8:30 P.M. Southern Homes and Gardens, Wetumpka. Advance your cake decorating skills with the Wilton Hall of Fame instructor Lynne Devine. Admission $25. 334.277.6746 www.southernhomesandgardens.com Nov 4 – The Forum: 27th Annual Economic Summit 7:30 A.M. - 12:45 P.M. Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center. Come out for a continental breakfast at 7:00 hosted by Auburn Montgomery’s Business Breakfast Series Sponsors and stay for the main event which will begin at 7:30. Registration, which includes valet parking, breakfast, lunch and materials, is $195 per person or $1,560 for a table of eight. 334.244.3804 www.aum.edu Nov 4 – 8 – Alabama Frontier Days 8:30 A.M. – 4:30 P.M. Fort Toulouse-Fort Jackson State Historic Site. Reenactment of Alabama’s frontier days from French Colonial times to the early American period. Includes Native American re-enactors, period traders, merchants and entertainers. Admission charged. 334.567.3002 www.wetumpkachamber.org Nov 5 – Women in Business Forum Annual Gathering 5:30 – 7:30 P.M. Wynlakes Golf & Country Club. Don’t miss out on this unique networking opportunity. Come celebrate the Women in Business Forum’s year of work and the successes of women business leaders. This event provides a professional development opportunity and presentation by successful businesswomen. 334.834.5200 www.montgomerychamber.com

RSVP NOV/DEC 2009

when? what? where?

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Nov 5 – Home for the Holidays at Lee Ann’s Interiors 5:00 P.M. – until. 4695 Vaughn Road in the Shops of the Pallazo. The official countdown begins at this open house as you enjoy live entertainment, cocktails and hors’ deorves while browsing the splendor of Heidi’s Fine Jewelry, Amore Boutique and inspired décor to make your Holiday home a true gift. 334.270.0060 www.leeannsinteriors.com Nov 5 – 7 – Dueling Pianos at AlleyBAR 9:00 P.M. AlleyBAR, 166 Commerce Street. Join us in welcoming back the piano players to Montgomery. Audience participation and your requests fuel this interactive show. They’ll play anything from the oldies to current Top 40 hits, Billy Joel, Neil Diamond and even college fight songs. 334.387.3333 www.alleybarmontgomery.com Nov 6 – Wine Tasting “bone-a-fit” for the German

Shepherd Rescue of Central Alabama

5:00 – 7:00 P.M. Peppertree Steaks N’ Wines, 8101 Vaughn Rd in the Peppertree Shopping Center. Please join us for a waggin’ good time! Wines of the World wine tasting to benefit the German Shepherd Rescue of Central Alabama. Come out and support this great cause. 334.271.6328 www.steaksnwines.com Nov 6 - Disney on Ice: 100 Years of Magic 7:00 P.M. BJCC, Birmingham www.ticketmaster.com Nov 6 – El Domino Ball 8:00 P.M. Montgomery Country Club. Private Invitation Only. Nov 6 – Foundation Fighting Blindness Reunion Concert 8:00 P.M. Rock Bottom American Pub, 2430 Eastern Blvd. Team Vision quest is sponsoring a concert to raise money for the Foundation fighting Blindness. Reunion concert featuring McQueen Street, Rat Race & High Horse Band. $10 donation at the door proceeds for the cause! www.rockbott omamericanpub.com Nov 6 – 7 – Mistletoe Market Time Varies. Doster Center, Prattville. Shop till you drop at Prattville’s Annual Mistletoe Market featuring over 40 quality vendors offering the latest seasonal gifts! 334.358.1525 www.visithistoricprattville.com Nov 6 – 8 – Christmas Open House Time Varies. Southern Homes & Gardens. Join in the annual Christmas open house where the most exquisite decorations, ornaments, accessories, wreaths, trees and more are available at exceptional prices. Also enjoy holiday tunes, tastings, and more at Southern Homes and Gardens in both locations in Montgomery and Wetumpka. 334.387.0440 www.southernhomesandgardens.com

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�� Chris Bailey

Glenn Halbrooks

Dee Jackson

Jamie Langley

Jeff Sanders

Stefanie Hicks

Kait Parker

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Tim Lennox

when? what? where? Nov 7 – 43rd Annual Pike Road Arts and Crafts Fair 9:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M. Marks House, Pike Road. Come out for a day of fun in the country with more than 300 arts and crafts vendors, homemade sweets, plenty of barbeque, other food and shopping. 334.281.6303 www.pikeroadfair.org Nov 7 - Montgomery AIDS Outreach Masquerade Ball 8:00 P.M. Biscuits Stadium. There will be lots of fun at this big After-Party with music, dancing, entertainment, champagne and desserts. Live and silent auction featuring local artists, Caribbean and Florida beach house rentals, football paraphernalia and one-of-kind treasures. 334.280.3349 www.maoi.org Nov 7 – Grayson Capps, Papa Mali & Friends 10:00 P.M. Number Sixteen, 5251 Hampstead High St in Hampstead. $10 in advance and $15 day of show. 334.517.1428 www.no16montgomery.com Nov 7 – 8 – Dracula Time Varies. Festival Stage at Alabama Shakespeare Festival. The Alabama Dance Theatre presents Dracula. Pricing varies. 334.271.5353 www.alabamadancetheatre.com

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Nov 7 – Dec 19 – Ferdinand the Bull Time Varies. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. This sweet and funny musical, based on the famous children’s story by Munro Leaf, teaches important lessons about being true to yourself. Admission varies. 800.841.4273 www.asf.net Nov 8 – Mystery Tour Join historian Mary Ann Neeley for a history mystery tour. For more clues, including meeting time and location, call 334.240.4500. www.oldalabamatown.com Nov 8 – Marquirette’s Holiday Gala 2:00 – 8:00 P.M. Riverwalk Stadium. Marquirette’s brings the Flora-Bama directly to Montgomery. Oysters, free beer, Bushwackers, Flora-Bama gift shop, games, featuring 25 of Flora-Bama’s Entertainers! For tickets stop by the store in the Cornerstone Shopping Center or call 334.270.0074 www.marquirettes.com Nov 12 – Falcor Wine Dinner at La Jolla 7:00 P.M. La Jolla in the Shoppes of Eastchase. Please call Peppertree Steaks N’ Wines for details and reservations. 334.271.6328 www.steaksnwines.com Nov 12 – A Salute to Our Nation’s Veterans 7:00 P.M. Davis Theatre. 334.241.9567 www.montgomery.troy.edu

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NOV/DEC 2009 RSVP 63

when? what? where? Nov 13 – Les Dames Ball 8:00 P.M. Montgomery Country Club. Private Invitation Only. Nov 13 – Amy Grant 8:00 P.M. BJCC, Birmingham. www.ticketmaster.com Nov 13 – 15 – Mulberry Historic District Holiday

Open House

Time Varies. Mulberry District. One of Montgomery’s most charming historic districts will be open for a magical shopping and dining experience. Contact local shops for more information on the preview night held on Nov 12. 334.265.5035 Nov 14 - Cosmetic Trunk Show Breakfast at Dillards 8:00 - 10:00 A.M. Dillards at EastChase will open up early in the cosmetic area for breakfast from 8:00 - 8:45 A.M. Representatives from various cosmetic lines will be available to talk about new make up trends, tips and answer any questions about cosmetics. To make a reservation, purchase a $35 gift card that you can use that morning towards purchases. You will also receive a free gift. 334.244.6442 Nov 17 – 19 – Mamma Mia 7:30 P.M. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Inspired by the story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs, writer Catherine Johnson’s sunny, funny tale of family and friendship unfolds on a Greek island. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings 3 men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago. Songs including “Dancing Queen”; “The Winner Takes It All”; “Money, Money, Money” and “Take A Chance on Me” are all featured in this feel-good night of fun and laughter. 334.481.5100 www.mpaconline.org Nov 18 – Jonathan Bloom’s CD release party 7:00 P.M. AlleyBAR, 166 Commerce Street. Copies of Green will be available for $10. 334.387.3333 www.alleybarmontgomery.com Nov 19 – MACC Business After Hours 5:00 – 7:00 P.M. Jackson Hospital. This popular monthly member event is a great place for networking with Chamber executives and community leaders as well a place to meet potential clients and make important contacts all in a relaxed social environment. 334.240.9496 www.montgomerychamber.com Nov 19 – Promenade Concert by Classical Guitarist

Robert Gibson

7:30 P.M. Goodwyn Auditorium at Auburn Montgomery. Admission is free and open to the public. www.aum.edu 64

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when? what? where? Nov 20 – Riverfront Pub Crawl 6:00 P.M. Tickets are $10 in advance through www.rsvpmontgomery.com and $15 day of at the ticket box located at intersection of Commerce/Tallapoosa Street. Includes access to trolley/shuttle, an event schedule with food and drink specials at over a dozen bars, restaurants and venues. 334.649.3030 www.rsvp-montgomery.com Nov 20 – ASU Homecoming “Meet the Browns”

of Stand Up Comedy

8:00 P.M. ASU Acadome. $25 for VIP Reserved and $15 General Admission. 334.229.4551 www.hornethomecoming.com Nov 21 – 8th Annual Turkey Burner 5K Run and

1 Mile Fun Run/Walk

Time Varies. The 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk races start and end at MetroFitness. Both courses take you through the beautiful Wynridge neighborhood. Courses are USA Track and Field Certified. Proceeds will benefit Montgomery Area Food Bank and each participant is asked to bring a can of food to be donated for this cause. Entry fees vary. 334.396.0040 www.metrofitness.com Nov 21 – VisionWalk: A Cure is in Sight 9:00 A.M. registration / 10:00 P.M. Walk. Homewood Central Park, 1632 Oxmoor Road, Homewood, AL. www.fightblindness.org Nov 21 – 12 Savings of Christmas Open House at

Peppertree Steaks N’ Wines

10:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M. Peppertree Steaks N’ Wines, 8101 Vaughn Road, Peppertree Shopping Center. Come see what Peppertree Steaks N’ Wines has in store for the holidays! Enjoy some of Peppertree Steaks N’ Wines favorite recipes, wine sampling and holiday food. They will share delicious samples of cheese, bakery goodies, mulled wine and more! 334.271.6328 www.steaksnwines.com Nov 21 – hue studio holiday open house! 10:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M. 8155 Vaughn Road, Peppertree Shopping Center. Holiday goodies and cheer & 15% off everything in the store. 334.239.8884 www.huestudioinc.com Nov 21 – Holiday Open House at LUNA 5:00 – 8:00 P.M. Luna – a tapas restaurant, 8123 Vaughn Road, Peppertree Shopping Center. Enjoy a wine tasting, half-off tapas and selected bottles of Spanish wines. Acoustic Flashback starts at 8:00 P.M. 334.517.1260 NOV/DEC 2009 RSVP 65

RSVP NOV/DEC 2009

when? what? where? Nov 21 – Mike Epps 8:00 P.M. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Mike Epps has generated quite a buzz among his peers and within the industry for being one of the funniest comedic actors to emerge into the Hollywood scene. Now, as he continues honing his skills for his existing comedic audience, Epps ventures into a new realm of entertainment with his first dramatic role, proving his uninhibited versatility and limitless potential as a crossover talent phenomenon. This December, Epps the actor will become Epps the rapper, coming out with the CD Bad Santa for the Christmas holiday. 334.481.5100 www.mpaconline.org Nov 24 – Cigar Smoker Experience at Casa Napoli 2215 US Hwy 231, Wetumpka. Discover the pleasures of cigar smoking with an expert consultant. Vendors will showcase cigars on the back deck. 334.567.7777 www.gocasanapoli.com Nov 25 – Col Bruce & the Quark Alliance 10:30 P.M. Number Sixteen, 5251 Hampstead High St in Hampstead. $10 in advance and $15 day of show. 334.517.1428 www.no16montgomery.com Nov 26 – 86th Annual Turkey Day Classic Traditional Rivalry featuring the Alabama State University Hornets of Montgomery against the Tuskegee University Tigers. Parade, tailgate party, Hornet walk and 3:00 P.M. game! www.hornethomecoming.com Nov 27 – The Iron Bowl 1:30 P.M. Don’t miss the Southeast’s biggest college football rivalry featuring the Auburn Tigers against Alabama’s Crimson Tide! Nov 27 – Dec 24 – A Christmas Story Time Varies. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. This play is sure to get you in the mood for Christmas and is a great laugh for all ages! Admission varies. 800.841.4273 www.asf.net Nov 28 – Ray Johnston Benefit Concert at AlleyBAR 9:00 P.M. AlleyBAR, 166 Commerce Street. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience the passion and artistry of the Ray Johnston Band, live onstage at AlleyBAR, for a special benefit show. Tickets are $25 (general admission), and the proceeds will benefit Cancer Wellness Foundation and the Dallas Heroes Foundation.VIP accommodations and donation tables are available. Also performing at the gala is Hip Boot Joe. 334.387.3333 www.alleybarmontgomery.com Nov 29 – Radio City Christmas Spectacular Starring

the Rockettes

7:00 P.M. BJCC, Birmingham www.ticketmaster.com

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when? what? where? December Dec 1 – Natalie Grant 7:00 P.M. A powerhouse vocalist, heart-gripping songwriter and charismatic performer, she’s eager to push boundaries—sonically, lyrically and otherwise—and she more than proves her intentions with Relentless, her seventh album and first studio recording in nearly three years. 334.481.5100 www.mpaconline.org Dec 3 – Christmas Tree Lighting This event has become the official kickoff to the Christmas holiday season in Prattville as Mayor Jim Byard Jr. lights the City of Prattville’s Christmas tree. Enjoy entertainment by the Prattville Pops, the Community Chorus as well as many other local talents. www.prattvilleal.gov Dec 3 – Holiday Wine Tasting 5:30 – 7:00 P.M. Peppertree Steaks N’ Wines, 8101 Vaughn Rd in the Peppertree Shopping Center. Wines perfect for holiday get-togethers. 334.271.6328 www.steaksnwines.com Dec 3 – Beer Tasting with Tapas 6:30 P.M. Number Sixteen, 5251 Hampstead High St in Hampstead. Taste super premium beers along with Chef’s choice Tapas. Will be held in the bar. $30. 334.517.1428 www.no16montgomery.com Dec 3-6, 10-13 and 17-31 – The 18th Annual Christ-

mas Light Festival 2009

5:30 – 9:30 P.M. Montgomery Zoo. Come out to the Montgomery Zoo for a night of lights! Enjoy beautiful holiday lights by train or foot as well as live entertainment, food, gifts, and pictures with Santa. 334.240.4900 www.montgomeryzoo.com Dec 4 – 2009 Capital City Christmas Parade & 190th Birthday Celebration 4:45 – 8:00 P.M. Court Square. Celebrate Montgomery’s Past, Present and Future! Enjoy the Governor’s Tree Lighting Ceremony at the State Capitol, parade, and fireworks! Dec 4 – Diamond Princess Ball 6:00 – 8:00 P.M. Capital City Club. It’s a night when every girl is a princess: the Diamond Princess Father-Daughter Ball. Girls in grades six and under are invited to bring their father figures for a night of fairy tale magic. Tickets are $100 per couple, $50 for each additional child. 334.240.4500 www.oldalabamatown.com Dec 4 – Daughtry 7:30 P.M. BJCC, Birmingham www.ticketmaster.com NOV/DEC 2009 RSVP 69

when? what? where? Dec 4 – 6 – Society of Arts and Crafts 30th Annual

Christmas Art and Craft Show

Time Varies. Renaissance Montgomery Hotel and Spa. Great art and wonderful crafts and gift items just in time for holiday shopping. Wonderful decorations and gifts are for sale, delicious refreshments, and its exhibitors are demonstrating their art and craft throughout the show. 334.265.9931 www.sacsgallery.org Dec 4 – 6 – 39th Annual Montgomery Gem, Mineral, and Jewelry Show Time Varies. Garrett Coliseum. Display and sale of a variety of jewelry, gemstones, etc. 334.277.2722 Dec 4 – 20 – The Montgomery Ballet presents “The

Nutcracker”

Time Varies. The Montgomery Ballet’s 34th annual production of The Nutcracker at Troy University’s Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts. 334.409.0522 www.montgomeryballet.com Dec 5 – Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis Get in the spirit this holiday season at the Arthritis Foundation’s Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis®. Be one of the thousands of runners and walkers who hit the nation’s pavements, pathways and parks this winter to fight arthritis, the nation’s most common cause of disability. Huntingdon College. www.arthritis.org Dec 5 – “Home for the Holidays” Prattville’s Annual Christmas Parade 4:00 P.M. Come get in the holiday spirit at Prattville’s annual Christmas parade! Starting at the Autauga County Courthouse, this night is sure to get you in the holiday spirit! www.prattvilleal.gov Dec 7 – 24 – The Montgomery Humane Society

Christmas Gift Wrapping

Time Varies. Shoppes at EastChase (in the old Harold’s store) and Eastdale Mall. Donations to the Montgomery Humane Society will be accepted while volunteers beautifully wrap your Christmas presents. 334.409.0622 www.montgomeryhumane.com Dec 8 – 22 – Cruising with Santa on the Harriott II Time Varies. Santa is coming to town and he wants you to join him as he rides the Harriott II. All holiday cruises are $35 per adult and $18 per child ages 3-12. This price includes: holiday dinner buffet, spending time with Santa and complimentary cookies and cocoa. 334.241.2100 www.funontheriver.net

RSVP NOV/DEC 2009

when? what? where? Dec 9 – MACC 60 Minute Coffee 8:00 – 9:00 A.M. Landmark Construction and Development, LLC Office. This monthly member event is a great way to begin your day by networking with Chamber executives and community leaders, meeting potential clients, and also making important contacts. 334.240.6863 www.montgomerychamber.com Dec 10 – The Wizard of Oz 7:30 P.M. The Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Travel down the yellow brick road in the greatest family musical of all time! 334.481.5100 www.mpaconline.org Dec 11 - Martha Reeves and the Vandellas 7:00 P.M. Davis Theatre. 334.241.9567 www.montgomery.troy.edu Dec 12 – Christmas on the Coosa 10:00 A.M. – 8:00 P.M. Downtown Wetumpka. The annual Christmas extravaganza with arts & crafts, street parade, food, concessions, handmade quilt show, classic car show, entertainment and activities on the Coosa River culminating with a spectacular fireworks exhibition at dusk. 334.567.1313 www.christmasonthecoosa.com

(205) 914-4527

www.chefdavecarvesice.com chefdavecarvesice@hotmail.com

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Dec 12 – Krewe of the Athenians Ball 8:00 P.M. Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa. Private Invitation Only. Dec 13 – Shine All Night Tour: Martina McBride 7:30 P.M. BJCC, Birmingham www.ticketmaster.com Dec 15 - Holiday Open House 5:00 – 8:00 P.M. Old Alabama Town. 334.240.4500 www.oldalabamatown.com Dec 15 – Mannheim Steamroller: Christmas 7:00 P.M. BJCC, Birmingham www.ticketmaster.com

Enjoy your very own copy of the River Region Guide to all things social. SUBSCRIBE to RSVP Montgomery

6 Issues for Only $18!

Enroll at: www.rsvp-montgomery.com

Dec 17 – Holiday Wine Tasting 5:30 – 7:00 P.M. Peppertree Steaks N’ Wines, 8101 Vaughn Rd in the Peppertree Shopping Center. Wines perfect for gift giving. 334.271.6328 www.steaksnwines.com Dec 17 – Puttin’ on the Blitz Christmas Party 8:00 – 11:00 P.M. Alley Station, 130 Commerce Street. Join RSVP Montgomery for a DJ and Talent Show with first place winner receiving a two-night stay at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel. Prizes will be awarded to 2nd and 3rd place winners and door prizes will be given throughout the night. Tickets are $25 and include light hors’ deourves, beer, wine and holiday hunch punch. 334.649.3030 www.rsvp-montgomery.com NOV/DEC 2009 RSVP 71

when? what? where? Dec 19 – Christmas Open House 1:00 – 5:00 P.M. Fitzgerald Museum. Open-house with cake, punch, and cookies with literature and other information about the famed writers, F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald. Donations accepted. 334.264.4222 www.fitzgerald-museum.com Dec 19 – Blue – Gray Colonels Ball 8:00 P.M. Garrett Coliseum. Private Invitation Only. Dec 27 – Corey Smith 8:00 P.M. Alabama Theatre, Birmingham www.ticketmaster.com Dec 28 – Jeff Dunham 7:30 P.M. Philips Arena, Atlanta. www.ticketmaster.com Dec 31 – Mystic Order of Revelry Ball 8:00 P.M. Montgomery Country Club. Private Invitation Only.

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Dec 31 – New Year’s Eve at LUNA Luna – a tapas restaurant, 8123 Vaughn Road, Peppertree Shopping Center. Celebrate the New Year with friends and family with a meal to remember. They will be welcoming in 2010 in considerable style, offering a delicious menu for just $25 per person. This entitles visitors to a glass of Champagne on arrival as well as some superb musical entertainment by 3AM throughout the night. 334.517.1260 Dec 31 – New Year’s Eve with the Montgomery Rec-

reators

9:00 P.M. AlleyBAR, 166 Commerce Street. Come swing in the New Year with an 18 piece 40’s swing band, the Montgomery Recreators. 334.387.3333 www.alleybarmontgome ry.com Dec 31 – New Year’s Eve with Fly By Radio 9:00 P.M. Rock Bottom American Pub, 2430 Eastern Blvd. Rock in the New Year! 334.239.7625 www.rockbottomame ricanpub.com Dec 31 – Emerge Montgomery NYe 2009 9:00 P.M. Alley Station. Light hors d’oeuvres and an open bar. Rock out under the stars on the rooftop terrace with the band Suns of March or get your groove on in the main ballroom with a party DJ. $50 in advance or $65 after Dec 25. www.etix.com Please note that the listing of an event does not constitute sponsorship or endorsement by RSVP Montgomery. The information listed is provided merely as a guide to aid you in your planning. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy in information provided, changes in schedules sometimes occur and it is suggested that you confirm information prior to attending listed events. 72

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resource directory 129 Coosa, p. 8

129 Coosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.262.8859 www.129coosa.com

Academy Events & Catering, p.58 203 Orline Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 334.318.3047 www.academychefs.com

Alabama Shakespeare Festival, p.63 1 Festival Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 334.271.5353 www.asf.net

Alley Bar, p 3

166 Commerce Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.387.3333 www.alleybarmontgomery.com

Alley Station, p. 57

130 Commerce Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.277.1077 www.alleystation.com

Amore, p. 29

4695 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 334.386.2060

Amplify Salon, p.60

1615 Graham Street Montgomery, AL 36106 334.834.4243 www.amplifysalon.com

Arbonne, p. 73

Mindi Wilson 334.239.2194 www.arbonneinternational.com

Arbors on Taylor, p. 17

485 Taylor Road Montgomery, AL 36117 334.386.2655 www.thearborsontaylor.com

Arrow Rents & Party Professionals, p. 19 5600 Calmar Drive Montgomery, AL 36116 (334) 277-0460 www.arrowrents.net

Auburn University Montgomery, p. 58, 74 7440 East Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 334.244.3000 www.aum.edu

Aw Shucks, p. 61

US 231 North Montgomery, AL 36110 334.279.6252

Bill Ingalls Photography, p. 31 1043 Woodley Road Montgomery, AL 36106 334.264.3333 www.billingalls.com

Brendle Rentals, p. 62 485 Eastern Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36117 334.279-7368 www.brendlerentals.com 74

RSVP NOV/DEC 2009

Brock, Kevin-State Farm Insurance, p. 71 5947 Carmichael Road Montgomery, AL 36117 334.277.2317

Cagle and Luster Construction Inc., p. 68 61 Market Place Montgomery, AL 36117 334.260.0205 www.cagleandluster.com

Capital City Club, p. 69

201 Monroe Street, Suite. 2100 Montgomery, AL 36104 334.834.8920 www.capitalmontgomery.com

Capitol Filmworks, p. 70 7030 Eastchase Parkway Montgomery, AL 36117 334.356.3457 www.capitolfilmworks.com

Casa Napoli , p. 38, 61 2215 U.S. 231, Wetumpka, AL 36098 334.567.7777 www.gocasanapoli.com

Chanterelle Photography, p. 51 8449 Crossland Loop Montgomery, AL 36117 334.202.8489 www.chanterellephotography.com

City of Montgomery, p. 54 Club BTS, p. 2

2152 Cobbs Ford Road Prattville, AL 36066 www.clubbts.com

Crockmier’s, p. 73

9593 Vaughn Road Pike Road, AL 36064 334.481.0490 www.crockmiers.com

Cronier’s Fine Jewelry, p. 6 2307 Eastern Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36117 334.272.4995 www.croniers.com

Croydon Finishing, p. 45 1283 Newell Parkway Montgomery, AL 36110 334.260.0148 www.croydonfinishing.com

Darren Freeman Photography, p. 79

P.O. Box 240404 Montgomery, AL 36124 334.215.7827 www.darrenfreemanphoto.photoreflect.com/

Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts, p. 65

251 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.241.9567 www.montgomery.troy.edu/davis/

Dillards Makeup Event, p. 37 Dreamland BBQ, p. 42 101 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.273.7427 www.dreamlandbbq.com

Eastside Grille, p. 53 6667 Atlanta Hwy Montgomery, AL 36117 334.274.1200 www.eastsidegrille.com

Emerge NYE Event, p. 51 Express Fitness, p. 21

4151 Highway 14 Millbrook, AL 36054 334.290.0084 www.expressfitness24.com

Filet & Vine, p. 28

431 Cloverdale Road Montgomery, AL 36106 334.262.8463 www.filetandvine.com

Jim Orr Photography,

p. 72 334-657-5219 www.jimorrphotography.com

Kim Box Photography,

p. 4 157 W. Main Street Prattville, AL 36067 334.491.0409 www.kimboxphotography.com

Kwik KopyShop, p. 64 4148 Carmichael Road Montgomery, AL 36106 334.215.3461 www.kwikkopyshop.com

Legends at Capital Hill, p. 49

Montgomery Catering, p. 67

Renaissance Hotel & Spa, p. 9

770 Washington Avenue Montgomery, AL 36104 334.269.0222 www.montgomery-catering.com

201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.481.5000 www.marriott.com

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, p. 75

Resolution Camp,

p. 23

One Museum Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 334.240.4369 www.mmfa.org

Riverfront Facilities, p. 73

Montgomery Otolaryngology, p. 46 1722 Pine Street Suite 804 Montgomery, AL 36106 334.834.7221 www.montgomeryent.net

p. 58 2430 Eastern Blvd. Montgomery, AL. 36117 334.239.7625 www.rockbottomamericapub.com

334.241.2100 www.funontheriver.net

Rock Bottom American Pub,

Montgomery Performing Arts Centre

SaZa Serious Italian Food, p. 11

3653 Debby Drive Montgomery, AL 36111 334.281.7577

2500 Legends Circle Prattville, AL. 36066 334.290.1235 www.marriot.com

201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.481.5100 www.mpaconline.org

Fontaine Entertainment,

L’Esprit, p. 33

Montgomery Zoo p. 54

Taylor Crossing Animal Hospital, p. 53

2301 Coliseum Parkway Montgomery, AL 36101 334.240.4900

The Gathering, Frazer Memorial, p. 37

8327 Crossland Loop Montgomery, AL 36117 334.260.0355 www.lesprit.net

LUNA, p. 63

9430 New Park Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 334.215.9215 www.newparkliving.com

The Waters, p. 68

Nikki P. Photography, p. 76

The Wynfrey, p. 22

Fine Line Engravers p. 49

p. 74 334.514.4457 www.fontaineentertainment.com

www.frazerumc.org/thegathering

Green CompanyInc. Landscaping & Irrigation, p. 28 Post Office Box 1503 Wetumpka, AL 36092 334.651.2161

Hampstead, p. 5

5272 Hampstead High Street Montgomery, AL 334.270.6730 www.townofhampstead.com

Hue Studio, p. 66

8155 Vaughn Rd Montgomery, AL 36116 334.239.8884 www.huestudioinc.com

Ice Sculptures by David Bromley, p. 71 P.O. Box 130681 Birmingham, AL 35213 205.914.4527 chefdavecarvesice.com

Jim N’ Nicks, p. 64

6415 Atlanta Highway Montgomery, AL 36117 334.213.0046 www.jimnnicks.com

8123 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 334.517.1260

Marquirette’s Exquisite Jewelry, p. 80 7818 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 334.270.0004 www.marquirettes.com

Metro Fitness, p. 21

7150 Halcyon Park Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 334.396.0040 www.metrofitness.com

MJ Yoga, p. 27

5147 Atlanta Highway Montgomery, AL 36109 334.451.5326 www.healthwisefoods.com

Montgomery Academy,

p. 77 3240 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 334.272.8210 www.montgomeryacademy.org

Marina Bar and Grill p. 60 617 Shady Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.262.4207

New Park Living, p. 39

334.221.3715 www.nikki-p.com www.nikkipphotography.com

Number 16, p. 15

334.517.1428 www.numbersixteenhampstead.com

Obelisk Healthcare, p. 49, 76 4705 Woodmere Blvd Montgomery, AL 36106 334.558.0262 www.obeliskhealthcare.com

Olivia A Salon, p. 15 2101 Taylor Road Montgomery, AL 36117 334.396.4567 www.oliviaasalon.com

Quarters, p. 29

308 N. Lawrence St. Montgomery, AL 36104

Peppertree Steaks N’ Wine, p. 26 8101a Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 334.271.6328 www.steaksnwine.com

138 Commerce Street Montgomery, AL 36104 www.sazapizza.com

6897 Atlanta Highway Montgomery, AL 36117 334.260.8787 www.taylorcrossingvet.com Pike Road, AL 36064 334.272.3200 www.thewatersal.com 1000 Riverchase Galleria Birmingham, AL 35235 205.987.1600 www.wynfrey.com

Touch of Class Limousine, p. 27 4220 Troy Highway Montgomery, AL 36116 334.284.2673 www.alabamalimo.com

Troy University, p. 19

231 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.834.1400 www.montgomery.troy.edu

Turkey Burner Race, p. 66 www.metrofitness.com

Venice Gelato, p. 71 5675 US Highway 231 Wetumpka, AL 36092 334.478.3802

Young Barn Oyster Bar, p. 61 5331 Young Barn Rd Montgomery, AL 36106 334.819.7423

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Alley Station is Montgomery’s premier location for downtown living, shopping, dining and private events. Located on the newly renovated Alley, its beautiful architecture and unique living & event spaces make it a perfect place to celebrate life. And with the only rooftop terrace downtown, you can be sure there’s always something to celebrate! Flats at Alley Station offers all the best in downtown living. Incredible amenities like a private workout room and a gorgeous Rooftop Terrace combine with the ease and convenience of a work/play lifestyle to give residents all they need to truly celebrate life. And all the great dining, shopping and social hubs of the newly renovated Alley are right downstairs. All the convenience, none of the hassle and every bit of the style! Come take a tour and see for yourself. Events at Alley Station helps you celebrate all of life’s most important moments, in a beautiful, unique setting. Whether guests gather on the Rooftop Terrace for a stunning wedding reception or participants plan winning business strategies in the Ballroom, your event is sure to be memorable! From elegant galas to casual dinner parties, Alley Station is downtown Montgomery’s premier location for every occasion–up to 700 people. Call today and let us help you plan the perfect event! Dining at Alley Station. The first restaurant to open at Alley Station is the creation of famed celebrity Chef Joe DiMaggio, Jr. His SaZa Italian Restaurant offers the finest cuisine in an eclectic environment. SaZa is open for lunch and dinner daily, and can also cater your special event. There also is still restaurant space for lease in this exciting new development. Could your restaurant be the next to take advantage of this amazing downtown location? Shopping at Alley Station. With area attractions, hotels, restaurants and bars mere steps away, Alley Station is the perfect location for a cute boutique or fun specialty shop. According to Jeff Downes, Deputy Mayor of Montgomery, businesses along the Alley could generate $10 million a year. Why not let some of that be for your enterprise?

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For more information, call 334.277.1077 or visit us online at www.alleystation.com.

Luna – a tapas restaurant just celebrated one year in business! Its affordable menu is just as vibrant and enticing as the atmosphere itself. Tucked away in the Peppertree Shopping Center, Luna is Montgomery’s first tapas restaurant and brings the unique flavors of Spain to our River Region. You will be delighted to learn that tapas are simply smaller portions of distinctive favorites, allowing guests to share in cuisine served with creative flair. The Beef Empanadas are a favorite for discerning diners along with the flavorful Shrimp Tacos artfully displayed and garnished to perfection. Owner, Al Luna, has added Spanish selections to his menu, to include Shrimp Ceviche, a citrus marinated appetizer and Paella, an entrée comprised of rice, meat and vegetables originating in the Valencia region of Spain.

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Weekly Signatures:

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Tapas Tasting Tuesdays – 1⁄2 off tapas selections from 5:00 – 8:00 PM.

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Wine’d Down Wednesdays - Celebrate the mark of halfweek while you enjoy 1⁄2 off of selected Spanish wines.

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Tapas Tailgate – Cheer your team to victory while enjoying drink specials and the game in high definition on the 65” plasma. Live Music Saturdays - an eclectic melding of music, food, and cocktails. Enjoy the delicious food at home or at a business, holiday or birthday party – with their take-out or catering capabilities. Luna offers a full spectrum of fine catering options, and will help you create a special event custom-tailored to meet your needs. The culinary team will work with you to design a unique menu for your occasion, whether corporate meeting or lifecycle celebration. And the experienced professionals will provide the exceptional service your event deserves. With a unique ambiance, treat yourself to the best tapas dining around. Luna is first and foremost a place for extraordinary food. Where fine dining doesn’t have to cost a fortune! This non-smoking restaurant is open Tuesday – Saturday 5:00 P.M. until.

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� � �� 8123 Vaughn Road, Peppertree Shopping Center, Montgomery, AL 36116 • 334.517.1260

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